The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 2/2 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise at work each year. Whether working in construction, sports venues, or entertainment establishments, hearing loss is considered preventable through proper measures.
Measuring Noise Levels
Noise levels are measured in decibels, and exposure exceeding 85 decibels can cause damage to hearing. A simple way to gauge noise is to determine if you must raise your voice to speak to someone located three feet away. Tools for measuring these levels include sound level meters, noise dosimeters, octave band analyzers, and mobile phone apps, such as the NIOSH Sound Level Meter App.
Signs of Hearing Damage
Workplace noise may be a significant issue if workers experience ringing or humming in their ears after leaving work, must shout to be heard by coworkers at arm's length, or experience temporary hearing loss following a shift.
OSHA Compliance Requirements
OSHA requires employers in general industry, maritime, and longshoring sectors to implement hearing conservation programs when noise exposures reach or exceed 85 decibels as an 8-hour time-weighted average. These programs aim to prevent initial loss and protect remaining hearing. For exposures above 90 decibels, engineering or administrative controls, such as the elimination or substitution of noise sources, are required.
Construction Industry Standards
In the construction industry, specific standards require both administrative or engineering controls and a continuous hearing conservation program whenever exposures exceed 90 decibels as an 8-hour time-weighted average.
Consequences and Prevention Methods
Exposure to loud noise can damage or kill hearing receptor cells in the inner ear, resulting in permanent hearing loss that cannot be corrected by medicine or surgery. While hearing aids may assist, they do not restore hearing to normal. Prevention methods include using quieter machinery, isolating noise sources, limiting worker exposure, and utilizing effective hearing protective devices.
